This may very well be the first story of many of why they can't pay their rent on time - bank issue, health issue, pet issue, etc, etc, etc. 

If a tenant finds out that you put the pump on their meter and they report you to the city or board of health you will end up paying their full utility bill.  

I started reading from real estate books (Rich Dad, Poor Dad, etc), but honestly couldn't focus enough with all that was going on and decided to focus on my health.  

This one can be a C-corp so you can have a salary, establish health plans and retirement accounts (e.g.

Getting a crappy health insurance plan, or underpaying your income taxes, to increase your "net" income on each pay-check isn't actually a pay raise, since when you get sick now your deductible just tripled, and your April income tax bill went up as well!

Additional increases will be required if extensive repairs are required by the Health Department.

If Houston is like Phoenix I know A/C was considered a critical need, health and safety I think was the terms they used.

Life got busy with some health issues in the family, adding another 4 doors, and my day job getting crazy busy too.

Neighbor is on probation for drunk driving and has a record of battery.

Remember to call the tax collector's office (back taxes) and health department (if there's a septic system).Find an agent who's willing to working with flippers and investors.